Red & Blue is a common phrase used school wide. We have Blue thoughts about others when we feel happy, calm, or comfortable.  Blue thoughts occur when actions are EXPECTED. We have Red thoughts about others making us feel anxious, angry, sad, or uncomfortable. People have red thoughts when actions are UNEXPECTED. Using the statements "Red and Blue" help students generalize how their actions change other people's perspectives. In the classroom, teachers use blue & red visual cue cards that are silent reminders to help students understand how student behaviors affect others.

How do blue & red thoughts work in the classroom?
If students are walking quietly in the hallway, a teacher will  hold up his/her blue card and say, "I am having blue thoughts." Students would understand that they are doing expected behavior and their teacher feels happy and comfortable in the situation.

If students are lining up and talking in the hallway, a teacher will hold up their red card and say, "I am having red thoughts." Students would understand their behavior is unexpected and their teacher feels sad.  Therefore, students would find a positive way to correct their behavior. 

Don't we have school rules, classroom rules, & the Blue Valley Virtues?
We have many beneficial ways to promote student learning, growth, and behavior. Red and blue thoughts are cues to show how student behavior affects a situation, and that other people react and have feelings about that student's actions. 

Can Red(unexpected) and Blue(Expected) be utilized anywhere else?
Since red(unexpected ) and blue(expected) are based upon feelings and understanding, they can be utilized even while teaching a curriculum. Here are suggestions.

If you would like a further explanation, click here for Mrs. Dykman's wonderful description.